Bored, Stressed and Home Alone: Many Find Themselves Drinking to Excess During the Pandemic

Anxiety, Depression and Substance Abuse During COVID-19

The world has been struggling with the Covid-19 pandemic for most of 2020, and the virus shows no signs of slowing down. If anything, the rate of infection in much of the world has accelerated in recent weeks, and public health experts warn that the worst may be still to come.

In response, many governments are implementing more lockdowns, closing restaurants, shuttering local stores, and banning even small holiday gatherings. And while those public health experts are trying to walk a fine line between keeping people safe and protecting their economies, those who suffer from anxiety, depression, stress, and isolation find it increasingly harder to cope.

In the wake of the COVID-19 quarantine and ongoing lockdowns, alcoholism and alcohol abuse rates are increasing in many parts of the world. As the virus rages on, another epidemic is in place, one with those suffering from social isolation struggling like never before.

Why Many Are Turning To Alcohol in This Difficult Time

In the age of the coronavirus, nothing feels normal anymore. People are dealing with multiple unforeseen stresses and searching for ways to cope.  Unfortunately, for many that means drinking more alcohol.  Many casual drinkers who have always moderated their alcohol use in the past are now finding themselves drinking to excess as they deal with isolation and overwhelm.  For people who have already been struggling with alcohol abuse, coping with quarantine restrictions and an uncertain future can mean that sobriety takes a backseat.  The long term implications for individuals and society are worrying.

There are many reasons why people are turning to alcohol during this difficult time, but an attempt to deal with depression and anxiety is certainly one of the most profound. When stress and fear are all around us in times like these, it is easy to turn to the soothing balm of alcohol, even if the relief is only temporary.

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Effects on People in Recovery

Anyone can fall victim to excessive drinking and alcoholism during a stressful time, but those in recovery are at even greater risk. After working so hard to get sober, many recovering alcoholics are suddenly finding themselves falling into old behaviors.

It has not helped that many cities and states have kept their liquor stores open during coronavirus quarantines, and in some places, even allowing for alcohol to be delivered to people at home.  At the same time, community centers, 12-step meetings and churches have had to close their doors. The contradictions are all too obvious, especially to those struggling to keep their support network strong and stay sober during such a stressful time.

How to Know When Drinking Has Become a Problem

Many people are turning to alcohol in the age of the coronavirus.  There have been plenty of jokes on late night talk-shows and viral videos about drunken Zoom calls and virtual happy hours. Its easy to think that drinking more is just a normal part of life right now.  But how do you know if your drinking  has crossed the line and become a problem?

For many years one of the signs of alcoholism has been drinking alone, now due to Covid-19 restrictions, many people are home alone, making this a tricky grey area.  If you find yourself drinking regularly to escape your daily struggles, then you are using alcohol as an emotional crutch and it is time to take a hard look at your behavior.  If you have a history of alcoholism and substance abuse, any return to drinking is cause for serious concern and a reason to make a call for support right away.

Ways to Cope with Stress Without Alcohol or Drugs

It’s easy to turn to alcohol in stressful times because it’s readily available and socially acceptable to do so.  But its important to remember that numbing your emotions with alcohol only provides a temporary escape and only makes feelings of anxiety and depression worse over time.  There are many more effective ways to cope with the stresses surrounding COVID-19.

Get Some Exercise: Something as simple as taking a walk can do you a world of good, and you do not have to pick up a glass or open a bottle to enjoy it. Just bring your mask, practice social distancing and get some exercise in the open air.

Stay Connected:  Its more important now than ever to keep your support system close.  Call friends and family more than usual, it will be good for both of you.  You can also schedule virtual group calls.  However you choose to connect, its crucial to stay in close touch with friends, family, your sponsor, your sober coach, and anyone else who supports you in positive ways.

Meet Up Virtually:  If you’re in recovery, another important part of keeping your support system strong is continuing to attend support groups and 12-step meetings.  Many are happening either online or outdoors these days so you should be able to find groups you feel comfortable attending.  Also, don’t forget about other kinds of groups and meet-ups that bring like-minded people together around common interests.  Again, many of these are happening virtually now, bringing the added benefit that you can join up with groups around the country, and even across the globe, that you wouldn’t have had access to if it were in-person.

Practice Self Care: Caring for yourself is always essential to good mental health, but right now its important to really prioritize your self-care.  Make sure you’re giving yourself ample time for things you enjoy and that you know are good for you, at least on a daily basis.  Focusing on activities that bring you joy can help you cope with the COVID-19 pandemic without falling prey to the dangers of alcoholism and substance abuse.

If you’re worried about your drinking and have questions, or if you’re ready to seek help, we urge you to reach out today. Quality behavioral health treatment, like that at Legacy Healing Center, is more essential in these strange times than ever before.  Our staff is here to help you get the support you need, whether its for yourself or someone you care about.  Call 888.534.2295 anytime 24/7.  Calls are completely confidential.

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Benefits of Getting Out of Town for Addiction Treatment

Why It’s Helpful to Leave Town for Treatment

When you’re struggling with active addiction, it’s easy to feel isolated and alone. The loneliness associated with addiction has been well documented, and people often feel like no one truly understands what they’re going through. Those feelings of loneliness are certainly understandable, but people suffering from substance use disorders may have more good company available to them than they realize. When seeking addiction treatment services, having the ability to travel out of town can provide a network of supportive people who won’t adversely impact your recovery.

While in residential rehab away from their hometown, people discover a supportive community that understands what they’re going through.  The people encountered in residential addiction treatment are not associated with your history of substance abuse. People, places, and numerous other triggers can make even the most well-intentioned attempts at recovery that much more challenging but traveling to a behavioral health center is one way to reduce those triggers.

Traveling for Addiction Treatment Removes Negative Influences

No matter how strong you you are, being surrounded by the same old triggers can be overwhelming, and the desire to go back to your old ways can be irresistible. That’s why it can be beneficial for people to get out of town when they seek treatment for drug and alcohol addiction.

If you’re serious about your recovery and ready to beat substance abuse forever, why not start with a refreshing change of scenery?  Simply getting out of town enables you to break free of your negative surroundings, enhancing your chances of sobriety, especially when you find an exceptional treatment facility.

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Getting Out of Town Helps You Focus on Your Recovery

They say that travel is good for the soul, and it can also do wonders for your addiction recovery. Getting out of town allows you to place the focus where it belongs, on your recovery.

Instead of worrying about your friends, family, work, and other responsibilities, you can focus on your recovery by being temporarily removed from it all.  During this time away from your familiar environment, you can focus on attending individual and group counseling sessions and making new sober friends who can support your addiction recovery instead of undermining it. Sometimes you just need a clean break, and taking the step to travel to another city could be a key ingredient in your successful recovery.

Traveling for Rehab Gives an Opportunity for Reflection

When you travel to a new city for your addiction treatment, you can enjoy other benefits as well. In addition to the new surroundings, you will have a chance to reflect on where you have been and where you are going.

No one sets out to become addicted to drugs and alcohol, and no one wants to be saddled with a substance abuse problem. Reflecting on the origins of your substance use disorder and the factors that influenced you through the years will be critical to your successful recovery. Sometimes, that process starts with a change of scenery and a new environment so you can separate yourself from your past.

Traveling Out of Town Gives a Greater Sense of Privacy and Confidentiality

Unfortunately the stigma of addiction and drug abuse remains prevalent in our society, potentially making admitting that you have a problem an even greater challenge.

When you travel to a new city to begin your recovery journey, no one needs to know where you’ve been unless you want them to.  You can leave any possible judgement and stigma behind you. Making a clean break and getting a fresh start in a different location can give you the privacy and confidentiality you seek. This change enables you to focus on getting better, identifying your triggers, and developing the coping skills you’ll need going forward.

Residential Treatment Centers are Often in Beautiful Vacation Locations

Travel should be a delight and a reward, it can also help you transform your life for the better. If you’ve been struggling with substance abuse and are looking for a new lease on life, why not get started in a beautiful location where you can relax and start to feel positive about yourself and your surroundings.

When you travel to a beautiful luxury treatment center like Legacy Healing Center in South Florida, you can enjoy the best of both worlds. You’ll get to make a clean break from the people, places, and activities that had previously served as triggers for your addiction, and you’ll get to enjoy a beautiful tropical setting in the process.

The team at Legacy Healing Center understands the value of taking a break from day to day life.  That’s why our facilities are located in a beautiful vacation destination and include spa like amenities, swimming pools, and lush tropical outdoor spaces for relaxing.  If you feel like getting out of town would provide a much needed break, now may be the perfect opportunity.  Contact Legacy Healing Center today to discover how our treatment programs and our South Florida location can be ideal for your addiction recovery journey.  Call Legacy Healing Center anytime 24/7 at 888.534.2295, calls are completely confidential.

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10 Quotes from Celebrities Who Have Recovered from Drug and Alcohol Addiction

Many Top Celebrities Have Struggled with Addiction and Come Out to Share Their Stories.

As we all know, the disease of addiction does not discriminate.  Addiction does not care if you are rich or poor, young or old, thriving in your career or struggling to get a foothold in the world.  The fact that some of the most successful people in the world have struggled with substance abuse is testament to the fact that the disease of addiction can affect anyone.

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Fortunately, many celebrities who have recovered from drug and alcohol abuse have used their platform to bring awareness to the disease of addiction and offer hope and guidance to others.  Read on to learn more about celebrities who have struggled with, and ultimately overcome, their battles with addiction.

Russell Brand

While mostly known for his quirky roles in many blockbusters, this comedic genius struggled with alcohol and heroin addiction for years.  With the encouragement of his manager, he enrolled in a 12-step program which helped jump start his recovery.  His success in recovery inspired him to write a book, “Recovery: Freedom from Our Addictions” where he shares his spin on the traditional 12 steps of recovery.  In an interview with The Los Angeles Times, Russell speaks about how meditation has been instrumental in helping him in recovery, “It gives you a beautiful serenity.  It’s a cornerstone of recovery because it changes consciousness.”

Robert Downey Jr.

Before we knew him as Iron Man, Robert Downey Jr’s addictions were put on public display several times through arrests, escapes from rehabs, and even being found passed out in his neighbor’s son’s bed.  After spending a year in prison, Downey made the decision to enter rehab and has since been clean.  When asked what he has learned from his time in prison and rehab, Downey told Vanity Fair, “Job one is get out of that cave.  A lot of people do get out but don’t change.  So, the thing is to get out and recognize the significance of that aggressive denial of your fate, come through the crucible forged into a stronger metal.”

Ben Affleck

Ben Affleck’s struggle with alcohol was very publicly brought to light when his marriage to Jennifer Garner was dissolving in 2015.  In a candid interview with The New York Times, Affleck reflected on the guilt he felt for how his marriage ended, “Shame is really toxic.  There is no positive byproduct of shame.  It’s just stewing in a toxic, hideous feeling of low self-worth and self-loathing.  But you’ve got to pick yourself up, learn from it, learn some more, and try to move forward.”

Bradley Cooper 

Cooper, who has been sober since 2004, has been a huge asset to other celebrities in recovery.  Both Robert Downey Jr. and Ben Affleck have gushed over the support they received from him on their journey to recovery.  This speaks to the importance of having a strong support system in your corner.  In an interview with Barbara Walters, Cooper said, “I would never be sitting with you, no way, no chance, [if I hadn’t gotten sober].

Drew Barrymore

Growing up in the spotlight is no walk in the park, and often child stars have access to drugs and alcohol at a very young age, eventually resulting in addiction. This was the case for the young Drew Barrymore who’s first stint at rehab was at just 12 years old.  After a couple trips to rehab, Drew, has created quite the life for herself in recovery.  She’s had several hit movies, a makeup line, a daytime talk show, and two beautiful daughters.  “Life is very interesting… in the end, some of your greatest pains become your greatest strengths”, she said when reflecting on her life in recovery.

Jamie Lee Curtis

While Jamie Lee Curtis’ struggle with Vicodin and alcohol was not as public as others on this list, she has been very open about her battle with addiction.  She revealed that she was two years sober when she landed a cover story for Redbook.  While reflecting during an interview for the story, a lightbulb went off.  Her success and personal growth were due in large part to the fact that she was sober, a revelation she had not publicly shared until that time.  She stated that “stepping over the line of anonymity into a public conversation has been therapeutic”.

Keith Urban

The country music superstar turned to cocaine and alcohol beginning in 1992 when his career did not take off the way he had envisioned.  Over the years, his substance abuse spiraled out of control until 2006, when his new wife, Nicole Kidman, staged an intervention prompting him to enter rehab and get sober. About the decision to get treatment he has said, “I was going to lose it all.  It was like, if I don’t choose this moment to do the right thing and do something that’s going to give me life, all of the things I’m scared of losing, I’m going to lose anyway.”

Daniel Radcliffe 

Despite his role in the wildly successful Harry Potter series, Radcliffe struggled with alcoholism.  In an interview with Indie Wire, he said, “A lot of drinking happened towards the end of Potter and for a little bit after it finished, it was panic, a little bit not knowing what to do next-not being comfortable enough in who I was to remain sober.”

Carrie Fisher

Famous for her role as Princess Leia in Star Wars, Carrie Fisher’s struggle with addiction was also well known.  Fisher often spoke openly about her battle to beat addiction, which ultimately contributed to her fatal heart attack in 2016.  Fisher was an incredible asset to the mental health community due to her willingness to share her experiences with both Bipolar disorder and addiction, neither of which get enough attention in popular media.  Fisher famously said of recovery, “Sometimes you can only find Heaven by slowly backing away from Hell”.

Edie Falco

Edie Falco’s real-life experiences with addiction have helped her in her role in the HBO series Nurse Jackie. With 20 years of sobriety under her belt, she attributes the life lessons she learned battling alcoholism to her success in portraying her character.  When asked about her experience getting sober, Falco said, “Its like learning to ride a bike, you know?  You have to get your bearings and you have to stay stable”.

If you or someone you love is struggling with substance abuse, you are not alone.  Countless people, from celebrities to people you interact with in your daily life, have been where you are.  If you’re considering whether treatment for drug or alcohol abuse may be the next right step for you, please reach out to the intake specialists at Legacy Healing Center today.  Our specialists are available to help 24/7 and your call is always confidential.  Don’t delay, let our team of experienced clinicians help you start your recovery now!  Call today, (888)534-2295 or visit us on the web at www.legacyhealing.com.

 

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6 Tips for Talking to a Loved One About Their Drinking

Discussing Drinking Habits With Someone You Care About

Alcohol use disorder is a complex disease, yet alcohol abuse often remains misunderstood or even disregarded because alcohol consumption is legal and mostly socially accepted. Misconceptions about problem drinking can have long-lasting repercussions, not only for the individual suffering from alcohol use disorder but also for the people who care about them. The prevalence of misunderstandings about alcohol abuse makes it even more important to learn how to talk to a loved one about their drinking.

Being willing to talk honestly about a drinking problem with a loved one is an essential step in making a positive change. So how can you speak to a loved one about their drinking, and how should you handle such a delicate matter to encourage your beloved friend or family member to get the help they need?  We’ve compiled some tips for talking to a loved one about their drinking and supporting them in pursuing a life of sobriety.

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How to Discuss Drinking Issues With Alcoholics

There are some definite do’s and don’ts when talking to a loved one about their drinking, and the right approach can make all the difference in the world. Here are some key actions to keep in mind as you navigate the tricky waters alcohol use disorder can leave behind:

1. Wait for a window of sobriety: Even the worst problem drinker has moments of sobriety, so choose your time wisely and wait until the situation presents itself. Talking to a loved one about their alcohol use disorder while they’re intoxicated can be unproductive at best and explosive at worst, so wait for a window of sobriety before making your move.

2. Be specific about the situation and the problems it’s creating: When deciding how to talk to your loved one about their drinking, think carefully about what you will say. Instead of merely stating the individual is an alcoholic, be specific about their drinking problems. For instance, you might mention their issues with keeping a job or the fact they recently got a DUI. The more specific you can be about the problems their drinking creates, the better, so choose your words carefully and let your experience be your guide.

3. Avoid defensiveness and blame: It’s easy to feel like placing blame when a loved one is drinking to excess. However, criticism is unlikely to produce a good outcome. Blaming an alcoholic for their alcohol use disorder is like yelling at a person with diabetes for their elevated blood sugar. Moving the conversation in a positive direction will mean avoiding both accusations and defensiveness.

4. Listen to what your loved one says: Dealing with alcohol use disorder causes difficulty for family members, but it is even more challenging for the alcoholic themselves. No one wants to be in this situation, and the concept of how to talk to your loved one about their drinking is a two-way street. After your family member has listened to what you have to say, give them time to talk and say their piece.

5. Look for practical solutions: For those in active alcohol addiction, the future can seem hopeless. Problem drinkers often feel isolated and alone, even when family and friends surround them. Instead of succumbing to those feelings of hopelessness, look for practical solutions to their problem. Talk about how alcohol rehab may help and how medical detox can reduce withdrawal pain and make quitting drinking easier.

6. Make a plan for moving forward: When considering talking to a loved one about their drinking, it’s important to realize the conversation is the first step on a journey, not the end of the road. Once you’ve had this difficult conversation, it is time to move forward with a solid plan.

Depending on the situation, that plan of action may include calling a behavioral health center, setting up a meeting with a detox facility, or researching local AA meetings. Most likely, a combination approach will be needed, encompassing community support and guidance plus medical help and assistance from a professional addiction treatment facility.

Once you’ve taken the first step, the rest of the process could be more productive than you think. Contact Legacy Healing Center today at 888.534.2295 to learn how our individualized holistic treatment can help your loved one turn their life around for good.

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Mindfulness Tips for Addiction Recovery

Mindfulness and Addiction Recovery: How the Right Attitude Can Heal Your Body, Mind, and Spirit

The development of coping skills remains an integral part of any successful addiction recovery. If you want to enjoy a happier, more successful life, mindfulness can be a big help.

Mindfulness can build on the coping skills you’ve already learned, enhance your addiction recovery, and help you succeed in the outside world. The right attitude can work wonders, and once you start a mindfulness practice, you will see how effective it can be.

What Is Mindfulness?

Mindfulness can seem like a vague term, but it is much simpler than you might think. Mindfulness provides a way to focus your mind, shutting out the outside world’s distractions and providing you with the coping skills you need to strengthen your mind and emotional life.

There are many ways to practice this mental exercise, from formal guided meditation sessions to simple do-it-yourself practices. There is no one right approach, so you may want to experiment with several different options until you find what works the best for you. Just as every addiction recovery journey is unique, no two mindfulness practices will be the same, and that is fine.

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How Does Mindfulness Benefit Those in Recovery?

Practicing mindfulness can be useful for everyone, from those suffering from stress at work to people recovering from a severe illness or recent hospitalization. But for those in addiction recovery, this practice can be a lifesaver.

By focusing and calming the mind, mindfulness practices can aid in the development and growth of coping skills. With its focus on breathing, mindfulness can speed physical healing, helping those in addiction recovery overcome any health issues substance abuse may have caused. With all these benefits, its clear why mindfulness practices have become such an integral part of so many addiction recovery programs.

Mindfulness Tips

Practicing mindfulness is not as difficult or challenging as you might think. You do not have to be a meditation expert, or even particularly good at it, to benefit from the power of mindfulness and the amazing impact it can have on your individual recovery.

If you are serious about building a better life for yourself, the following tips can help you get going. Here are some key steps to keep in mind as you embark on your unique addiction recovery journey:

1. Be present in the moment: This is the foundation of mindfulness practice.  It’s easy to get caught up in worrying about the future and regretting the past, but mindfulness helps you be fully present. You cannot change what has happened before, and the future remains unknown.  Being present helps us to let go and fully appreciate the moment. This practice doesn’t just apply to when you are sitting in meditation.  Practicing being more fully present in conversations, when eating, and when going through all the activities of your day serves to enrich your life in countless ways.

2. Focus on your breathing: In good times and bad, your breath is always there, so much so that it often goes unnoticed. As you practice this exercise, start by focusing on your breath, becoming more and more aware of every inhale and exhale. Breathing is a unique function in that it is essential to keep us alive and yet we can control it when we choose to.  The breath is closely tied to our nervous system and heart rate and focusing on deep slow breathing has a direct calming effect on the mind and body.

3. Recognize that your thoughts are your own: Everyone has their unique views, and no one has the right to judge others’ ideas. Part of mindfulness involves recognizing that thoughts are personal, so acknowledge your thoughts by allowing them to come and go without too much attachment.

4. Expand your circle of compassion outward: When you are in addiction recovery, you may be spending a lot of time in sharing circles, and the process of understanding works in much the same way. Think about the people in your life, then expand your circle of compassion outward to people in your town, state, country, and the world.

5. Practice stillness: Quieting your mind and staying still in body and spirit can be difficult, but that is what mindfulness is all about. Find a quiet place where you will not be disturbed, focus your mind inward, and remain still practicing your mindfulness exercises. Even if it is difficult at the beginning, don’t feel discouraged, that is part of the process and it will get easier as time goes by.

Recovery from addiction does not just involve the physical nature of dependence. To truly overcome drug or alcohol addiction, its essential to address the whole person in body, mind and spirit.  Developing healthy coping skills like mindfulness can help you overcome unwanted urges and destructive behaviors. Contact Legacy Healing Center today to learn how you can start your addiction recovery journey 888.534.2295.  Our intake specialists are standing by 24/7 and all calls are confidential.

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The Role of Nutrition in Addiction Treatment

The Importance of Good Nutrition in Successful Addiction Recovery

You know the old saying, “you are what you eat”? It speaks to how proper nutrition can fuel your body and contribute to overall better quality of life. For people struggling with substance abuse, adequate nutrition is even more important.

While in the midst of active addiction, it is not uncommon for people to neglect nutrition. Lacking quality food can make the physical effects of addiction even worse and makes proper nourishment an essential element of successful addiction treatment.

The Toll Drug and Alcohol Abuse Takes on the Body

As with anything you put into your body, any long-term, excessive drug and alcohol use will significantly impact your health and nutrition. When proper nutrition remains neglected, it can disrupt the physiological functioning of our bodies. Common impairments include:

• Poor Diets: When substances are prioritized over adequate nutrition, diets are typically not full of nutrient-dense foods that help the body thrive.
• Overeating or Suppressed Appetite: Depending on the abused substances, they may inhibit or supercharge a person’s appetite. This drastic change can lead to excessive weight gain or malnutrition. Too much weight gain can lead to many health issues, such as hypertension and diabetes. Malnourishment is also problematic because it changes the body’s ability to absorb necessary nutrients.
• Gastrointestinal Disorders: Drinking alcohol excessively causes the stomach to produce more acid, which can cause gastritis (the inflammation of the stomach lining). Gastritis can lead to pain, vomiting, and even bleeding. Drugs and alcohol can also cause Irritable Bowel Syndrome and inflammation in the digestive tract.
• Organ Damage: Over time, substance abuse can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, liver disease, and digestive issues. Breast, mouth, throat, esophagus, liver, and colon cancers can also develop. Hepatitis, cirrhosis, and fatty liver disease can also occur due to excessive drinking.
• Hypoglycemia: When improper nutrition is paired with substance abuse, it can cause blood sugar imbalance.

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How Nutrition Supports Recovery

Eating healthy food fuels the body to function best, particularly when someone is in recovery. Consuming a nutrient-dense diet will allow the body to thrive while learning how to live without substances. The food you put in your body serves as your fuel and energy for the day. The more nutrients you can consume, the better your body will respond while going through the challenges of recovery.

The Importance of Nutrition During Detox

Detoxing your body from drugs, alcohol, and other toxins represents one of the most challenging parts of recovery. It can be both physically and mentally exhausting, so the body must receive the necessary nutrients to function at its best.

Keep in mind, detox can decrease your appetite, so supplementing your meals with vitamins, protein shakes, and smoothies helps maintain the nutrients you need to be successful. This process will also help to make up for any vitamin deficiencies you may have. Common vitamins given during detox are Vitamin D, B, Zinc, Iron, and Folate.

Also, establishing a routine of consuming three nutritious meals and two snacks each day will allow your metabolism to adjust to proper nutrition.

Consuming enough fiber will help prevent constipation, common with opioid use, so ensure you are eating enough fruits and vegetables.

Healing Common Nutrient Deficiencies Found in Recovering Addicts

While in recovery, be sure to eat foods that will help balance the serotonin levels in your brain. To do this, foods high in complex carbohydrates should be added to meals. This list includes beans, lentils, potatoes, rice, and whole-grain bread. When combined with protein, it will help regulate serotonin better. B-complex vitamin deficiencies are also common with alcoholism. These vitamins may include thiamine, folic acid, and B12. Most multivitamins contain these, so talk to your physician about supplementing your diet with vitamins.

Learning How to Eat for Long-Term Success in Recovery

After you complete detox, you will work with registered dietitians to learn how to plan meals to help you be successful in your recovery. Legacy Healing Center will help tailor a plan that fits your specific needs. Some of the dietary adjustments our dietitians may suggest include:

• Eating more complex carbs such as grains, beans, pasta, bread, and lentils, which will provide your body with long-lasting energy.
• Developing a consistent exercise routine to boost mood and metabolism while increasing energy.
• Taking vitamins and supplements to repair any deficiencies you may have.
• Limiting sugar and caffeine as it can cause dehydration and appetite suppression.
• Reducing sugar intake because it can trigger the chemicals in your brain that are activated by substance use.
• Consuming adequate protein and fiber to give you energy and prevent constipation.
• Establishing a meal schedule to provide your body consistency and avoid episodes of low blood sugar.

If you are ready to work towards a better life than you have ever imagined possible, please reach out to our addiction specialists at Legacy Healing Center today. As always, your call is confidential, and our specialists are standing by 24/7 to help get you started.

from Legacy Healing Center https://www.legacyhealing.com/the-role-of-nutrition-in-addiction-treatment/
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What to Expect at Your First 12-Step Meeting

12-Step Meetings: How to Prepare for Your First Time Out

For those struggling with alcohol or drug dependency, the 12-step program remains an integral part of successful addiction recovery. The meetings entail groups of current and former addicts sharing stories about addiction struggles and coping techniques to overcome their dependence.  They are also places where people in recovery come together to celebrate milestones in their sobriety.

Recovering addicts who have been attending 12-step programs for some time can become quite comfortable with the structure, the discipline, and the support of their fellow attendees. However, for newcomers, merely walking through those doors can be a frightening experience.

To help ease people into how 12-step meetings operate, we’ve compiled a few helpful things to know about attending the group sessions.

Your First AA or NA Meeting: What to Expect

Whether the meetings are run by Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), or another organization, the people who manage 12-step meetings follow the same basic structure. The support and sharing circle is a hallmark of 12-step and addiction recovery programs, so here is what to expect on your first time out.

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When you arrive, you will smell coffee brewing, and there may be some light snacks to calm your nerves and fill your stomach. After the greeting formalities, the chairs will be arranged in a circle, with dozens of people gathered around to support one another and share their addiction stories.

How 12-Step Meetings Work

The meetings begin with the chairperson reading the AA or NA motto and talking about the organization. The chairperson will then ask if there are any newcomers in attendance, and that will be your cue to speak up and introduce yourself.

Introducing yourself to a room full of strangers can be intimidating, but 12-step meetings are designed to be warm and welcoming environments. You should not be afraid to talk about your addiction recovery journey. Rather, you can be proud of all you have accomplished and the many challenges you have already overcome just by attending the session.

Its important to know that if you don’t feel like talking, you don’t have to.  Just showing up is the most important thing.  Being there and listening to the stories of others is more than enough if that’s all you feel up for.

Different Types of Meetings

In some ways, there is no such thing as a typical 12-step meeting. Instead, multiple 12 step-meetings are happening at any given time, each with their own focus and approach.

Some 12-step meetings are speaker focused, with special guests there to share their addiction recovery journey. These speakers may be people you know, including celebrities or local business leaders, or they may be anonymous former addicts like yourself. No matter their background, they all have compelling stories to tell, and the speaker-based approach can be instrumental.

Other 12-step meetings can be closed to the public, shielding the identity and protecting the participants’ privacy. For many first-time attendees, these closed meetings can seem like a safe space where they can reveal their fears and share their concerns with an understanding audience.

For others in addiction recovery, the convenience of an open 12-step program may be more appropriate. These free meetings are available to everyone, so anyone struggling to overcome their addiction can stop in and find the support they need. If you are worried about relapse and struggling to cope with life after rehab, having a list of open 12-step programs in your back pocket could be an excellent idea.

Importance of Sharing

Whether they are open, closed, or speaker-based, sharing entails an integral part of virtually all 12-step meetings. These meetings are a place for recovering addicts to share their stories and gain an understanding of sobriety.

Depending on the structure and set up of the 12-step meetings being held, you may be asked to share your own experience, so think about what you want to say and the specific challenges you are working to overcome. If you prefer to stay silent at your first 12-step meeting, you can generally do that, but you may still be inspired to share your story once you are in the presence of others who understand your experience.

Try Different Meetings

Not all 12-step meetings are the same, and choosing one that feels right for you is important for your recovery.  Meetings can have a different feel based on things like:

• How they are run
• Where they are located
• What time they are held
• Who is in attendance

If you are new to the 12-step meeting process, you may not know what to expect, so keep trying different meetings until you find one that feels like “home”.  It can be helpful to find several meetings that you know you like.  Many people have a home meeting that they attend regularly as well as others they attend when the time or place is more convenient.

Attend all the different types of 12-step meetings, including speaker-focused meetings, support circles, open meetings, and closed ones. The more you get to know the process, the easier it will be to make the right choice for your addiction recovery journey. Every meeting has its unique atmosphere, and trying several different types will help you find the approach that works best for you.

12 step meetings are plentiful, they can be found all over the world and at all times of day and night.  Many people enjoy attending open meetings in different cities and towns when travelling.  This can be a great way to connect with like minded people when you’re in a new place and helps you continue to feel supported when you’re away from home.

If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse, don’t hesitate to call Legacy Healing Center today at 888.534.2295.  Our intake specialists are standing by ready to answer your questions, and calls are completely confidential.

from Legacy Healing Center https://www.legacyhealing.com/what-to-expect-at-your-first-12-step-meeting/
via Legacy Healing Center